Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced a new screening program for military personnel aged 30 and older to ensure they have the 'right testosterone levels,' a move he frames as enhancing 'lethality.' In a video posted on X, Hegseth declared the initiative would create a 'High-T Department of War.'
Details of the Testosterone Screening Program
The program, announced on Wednesday, aims to address health markers early to keep troops on the 'leading edge of lethality.' While the video did not specify if women are included, the New York Times reported that women would also be screened. However, no FDA-approved testosterone treatment exists for women, raising questions about implementation.
Hegseth, who has previously expressed disdain for women in combat roles, reversed his opposition during his confirmation process. Critics suggest the policy could be used to justify purging women from the military. Hegseth recently blocked promotions of seven senior navy officers, five of whom are women or people of color, to two-star admiral rank. The New York Times noted that for the first time in over a decade, no female active-duty naval officers are likely to be promoted to admiral this year.
Cost and Priorities Under Scrutiny
The Trump administration has historically been reluctant to spend on hormone therapy for troops, particularly for transgender individuals. However, the defense department spends about 10 times more on Viagra and erectile dysfunction medications than on healthcare for transgender troops, according to reports. The cost of Hegseth's testosterone program remains undisclosed.
The announcement comes amid escalating tensions with Iran. On the same day, Iran threatened to halt Middle East energy exports, and President Trump warned of intensified strikes. The ongoing conflict has cost tens of billions of dollars, leading critics to question Hegseth's focus on testosterone screening over more pressing military matters.
Criticism of Hegseth's Competence
Columnist Arwa Mahdawi argues that Hegseth's fixation on testosterone is a distraction from his lack of qualifications. 'Rampaging around screaming about beardos and trying to butter up your testosterone-obsessed manosphere fans with videos about hormone screenings is easy,' she wrote. 'The US should be screening its defense secretary for basic competence.'
Hegseth's tenure has been marked by controversies, including allegations of sexual misconduct, bigotry, and past drinking on the job. His promotion of Christian nationalism and war crimes allegations have also drawn criticism.
